Hotels in Kurama

Kurama: Serenity Awaits Amidst Majestic Peaks and Soothing Springs

Nestled in the serene mountains of Kyoto, Kurama is a hidden gem that enchants visitors with its lush forests, tranquil hot springs, and rich cultural heritage. Just a short train ride from the bustling city, this picturesque village invites you to unwind in its famous onsen, soak in majestic views, and explore the historic Kurama Temple. Stroll through the charming countryside to the nearby town of Kibune, where you can enjoy riverside dining. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Kurama offers a perfect blend of nature and spirituality, making it an unforgettable escape from the ordinary. For the best hotel rates in Kurama and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Kurama

Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Kawaramachi Street offer unique experiences for travelers. Kiyomizu Temple, with its stunning views, is ideal for first-time visitors. Kinkaku-ji Temple, known for its golden pavilion, showcases Japan's beauty. Kawaramachi Street is perfect for shopping and dining. Accommodations near these attractions range from traditional ryokans, which often feature Japanese rooms and onsen spa facilities, to modern hotels, catering to various budgets, typically ranging from moderate to upscale prices. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Kurama:

1. Near Kiyomizu TempleOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for travelers seeking a deep cultural experience, with its proximity to the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The neighborhood is rich in history and offers stunning views of Kyoto's landscape. For accommodations, consider Kyoto Higashiyama SANTOUANOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star guesthouse offering dining options like a coffee shop and restaurant, plus entertainment amenities such as a flatscreen TV. Another option is Kiyomizu GardenOpens in a new window, a comfortable 3.0-star guesthouse with essential amenities that ensure a pleasant stay. Additionally, Yadoya ManjiroOpens in a new window is another affordable 2.5-star guesthouse with various breakfast options to start your day right.
2. Near Kinkaku-ji TempleOpens in a new window: Known for the breathtaking Golden Pavilion, this area is ideal for those interested in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. It’s a serene location, making it perfect for relaxation. Imazu Sun Bridge HotelOpens in a new window is a reputable 3.5-star hotel with excellent dining options, including a restaurant and daily breakfast. Another choice, Ocean Resort Hotel & Spa UminpiaOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star establishment, offers a variety of meal options and modern entertainment amenities like satellite TV. HOTEL U's KouroenOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, provides a comfortable stay with essential entertainment features.
3. Near Kawaramachi StreetOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for families and business travelers alike, with its bustling shopping district and easy access to public transportation. Activities and views nearby include a national park and a metro station. Abiko Guest HouseOpens in a new window is a well-rated 3.0-star guesthouse with convenient access to shopping and local attractions. For budget-conscious travelers, i Osaka HouseOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable stay with essential amenities. Lastly, IosakahouseOpens in a new window is a hostel/backpacker option, ideal for those seeking affordable lodging in a lively environment.

Things to do in Kurama for first time

A three-day visit to Kurama offers a serene escape into lush mountains and tranquil forests, perfect for relaxation and exploration. Experience rejuvenating hot springs, wander through charming countryside, and immerse yourself in the local culture with traditional kimono experiences and visits to serene temples nestled in nature. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kurama:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration in Kyoto with a visit to Kiyomizu Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that offers stunning views of cherry and maple trees, especially beautiful in spring and fall. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, make your way to Hokanji Temple, famous for its iconic five-story pagoda, where you can admire the traditional architecture. As the day winds down, head to Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant location where you can witness traditional festivals and rituals, and perhaps enjoy some local street food from nearby stalls.
• Day 2: Start your day at Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, which gleams beautifully in the sunlight surrounded by serene gardens. Next, proceed to Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden that invites meditation and reflection. Conclude your day at Ninna-ji Temple, where you can marvel at the stunning pagoda and explore the tranquil gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
• Day 3: Your day kicks off at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can wander through the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the imperial family. Following that, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a mesmerizing path up the mountain. Wrap up your itinerary at Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the stunning architecture and expansive gardens that reflect the grandeur of Japan’s feudal era.

5 tips to find a great Kurama hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Kurama is during January, February, and September, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For a budget-friendly experience, it's best to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully appreciate the area's highlights. While you're there, make sure to explore the beautiful mountains, rejuvenating hot springs, serene forests, and historic temples, all of which offer great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Kurama, Hotels.com is a great resource. To uncover potential discounts, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on their website, where you could find great rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping ensure you don’t miss any chances for significant savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kurama.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near key attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods. This way, you can find a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Kurama and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Kurama

Here are some top-rated dishes in Kurama, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan:

• Sushi: In Kurama, sushi is more than just a dish; it’s an art form. Local chefs often utilize fresh fish from nearby waters, presenting beautifully crafted nigiri or sashimi that highlights seasonal ingredients. Enjoying sushi at a small local sushi bar allows you to witness the chef's skill and passion firsthand.
• Ramen: Ramen in Kurama showcases rich, flavorful broth—often pork or chicken-based—with house-made noodles. Many ramen shops embrace a personalized approach, allowing diners to customize toppings from bamboo shoots to soft-boiled eggs, making each bowl a unique experience.
• Tempura: This dish features lightly battered and fried seasonal vegetables and seafood, served crisp and hot. In Kurama, you can find tempura shops that emphasize local produce, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage while offering a delightful contrast of texture and flavor.

Best time to go to Kurama

Kurama experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.2°F (26.8°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Kurama are March, April, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and September are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Kurama Travel Information